The Unicaf “Are You AI Ready?” event, held on May 31, 2023, at Pride Inn Azure in Lantana Road, successfully brought together thought leaders from various sectors to discuss their preparedness for AI integration. The event attracted government officials, heads of organisations in the healthcare sector, NGOs, the Ministry of Education, Unicaf students, top IT managers, and HR practitioners, creating a platform for engaging conversations and knowledge sharing.
The event aimed to address key questions surrounding AI integration, particularly focusing on the government’s readiness for AI integration in education syllabuses in Kenya and the ethical issues related to AI in healthcare and HR practices. Through panel discussions and informative presentations, participants explored the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on various sectors.
Unicaf’s Marketing Manager, Winnie Rachael, in her opening remarks, introduced Unicaf as a thought leader committed to integrating AI in education. She emphasised the importance of a strong ethical framework in AI development, highlighting the need for fairness, transparency, and accountability. She also addressed the potential impact of AI on employment and encouraged re-skilling initiatives to minimise displacement. As she concluded her speech, she left the audience with the thought-provoking question: “Are You AI Ready?”
Following the opening remarks, Ms Leah Irungu delivered a captivating talk on building a strong online profile and becoming an influential figure. Her presentation provided valuable insights into leveraging digital platforms and how to build an online presence for personal and professional growth.
The highlight of the event was the panel discussion, facilitated by the special guest speaker, Ms Caroline Mutoko. The esteemed panellists included Daniel Juma, CEO of the Global Peace Foundation; Martha Odundo, Director at the Ministry of Education; Chalo Mbuti, IT Manager and Unicaf student; Dr Tim Theuri, CEO of the Kenya Health Federation; and Nicholas Kasidhi, Global Talent HR Manager at Living Goods. Engaging in candid conversations, the panellists and audience members created a lively atmosphere, exchanging ideas on the government’s readiness for AI integration in education and addressing the ethical implications of AI in healthcare and HR practices.
Caroline Mutoko delivered a thoroughly engaging and insightful speech on the future of work. She shared perspectives on how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the job landscape, emphasising the need for individuals and organisations to adapt and acquire new skills to thrive in this evolving environment. Her presentation contributed to the thought-provoking discussions and future-oriented mindset of the event.
Moving forward, Unicaf aims to enhance future events concerning AI by considering larger venues, focusing on panel sessions, collaborating with stakeholders, organising follow-up events, engaging mainstream media, and maintaining active social media and influencer engagement. By implementing these suggestions, Unicaf seeks to solidify its position as a thought leader in AI in Kenya and beyond.
